IMPORTANCE OF CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY (C OF O) IN NIGERIA

IMPORTANCE OF CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY (C OF O) IN NIGERIA

Many people celebrate after buying land/building, only to later discover later that the ownership is legally questionable or the property cannot be used for the purpose they intended.

That is why a Certificate of Occupancy, (called C of O) is one of the most important land documents in Nigeria.

A C of O is an official document issued by a State Government showing that a person or company has been granted legal rights over a particular land.

It confirms Government recognition of the holder’s ownership and states what the land can be used for, whether residential, commercial, agricultural or other approved purposes.

It contains the location, size, boundaries and approved use of the land. It helps to reveal restrictions that may affect development or future transactions.

One major advantage of a C of O is legal protection. It strengthens ownership rights and can help reduce the risk of disputes, trespass or other claims over the property.

Financial institutions and investors have more trust in lands with C of O and accept it as collateral for loan.

But before you buy a land said to have a C of O, let a Lawyer conduct proper legal due diligence (investigation).

Get an experienced Property Lawyer to verify the authenticity and legal status of the documents/land before any payment or transaction is completed.

In land matters, assumptions can be very expensive.

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APEX CHAMBERS, Law Firm of Property/Real Estate and Business/Corporate/Commercial Lawyers, Attorneys, Barristers, Solicitors, Advocates and Legal Practitioners rendering legal services, Legal Consultants and Notary Public with Law Office in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

Phone: +234(0)7030868694 (Calls and Whatsapp)
Email: info@apexchambersglobal.com
Website: www.apexchambersglobal.com